Olympus SZ-11 vs Panasonic GF5

Here, we are reviewing the Olympus SZ-11 and Panasonic GF5, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SZ-11 (14MP) and the GF5 (12MP) is fairly similar but the SZ-11 (1/2.3") and GF5 (Four Thirds) posses totally different sensor sizes.

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The SZ-11 was unveiled 8 months before the GF5 and they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SZ-11 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting into a complete comparison, here is a brief summation of how the SZ-11 scores vs the GF5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-11 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5. The full galleries are available at Olympus SZ-11 Gallery and Panasonic GF5 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you'll have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-11 enjoys outside measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Panasonic GF5 has dimensions of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus SZ-11 and Panasonic GF5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are employing during that time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the SZ-11 compared to the GF5.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-11 and GF5 is 89 and 89 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to envision the contrast between sensor measurements merely by going over technical specs. The graphic here will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-11 and GF5.

As you have seen, each of these cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The SZ-11 having a tinier sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field more challenging and the Olympus SZ-11 will offer you extra detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop images way more aggressively. The older SZ-11 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.